In Memory

Pat Emrick (Kraft-Chapman)

Pat Emrick (Kraft-Chapman)

 

 

Patricia Ann Emrick Kraft-Chapman,

May 21, 2013

 

COALINGA, CA

Patricia Kraft-Chapman, 71, passed away on May 21, 2013, in Coalinga, California.  She was born December 1941, in St Paul, Minnesota.  Along with her two loving parents, Boyd and Anna Marie Emrick, and sister Betty, she moved to California when she was very young.

Patricia graduated in 1959 from Claremont High School and attended nearby Mount San Antonio College.   She was married to Richard Kraft in 1963, raised her sons, Hal, Erik and Stephen, and eventually completed college to become a teacher.

Patricia was a world traveler and her wonderful sense of adventure led her to live several years overseas with her family in Algeria, Majorca Spain, and Germany.  Later in life she continued to travel with her beloved husband, Dale visiting the Netherlands, Belgium, and France.

Patricia’s teaching career spanned over 45 years, 30 of which were spent teaching as a child development professor for the California Community College system.  Her passion was teaching and one of her proudest moments was when she earned her master’s degree from the University of La Verne 1986. Many teachers and students in California were impacted by her professional and inspiring teaching.  Although Patricia had just retired after serving 23 years at West Hills College, she continued to teach several classes a week

Patricia loved being a Mom…and then loved being a grandmother.  She was always there for her sons as a good shepherd.  Patricia would do anything for her children and was looking forward to spending more time with them and her four grandchildren, Sarah, Claire, Benjamin and Samuel in retirement.  Patricia enjoyed spending time with her family at their cabin at Bass Lake and created many happy memories there.

Patricia met the love of her life, Dale Chapman, in Coalinga and they married shortly thereafter in 1995.  Dale shared Pat’s passion for travel as well as raising their West Highland White Terriers.  They also loved antiquing and invested much of their time and effort in furnishing and remodeling their home and cabin.

Patricia is survived by her husband Dale of 17 years, sons Hal, Erik and Stephen, sister Betty, daughters-in-law Joan and Jennifer, and grandchildren Sarah, Claire, Benjamin and Samuel, as well as many loving and extended family members and friends.  We all loved her and miss her very much.

Interment was held at Cambria Cemetery on 7 June, Cambria being her favorite getaway along with a memorial service held at The Old Santa Rosa Chapel.  In lieu of flowers please send donations, “In Memory of Patricia Kraft-Chapman,” to:

Marjaree Mason Center

1600 M St
Fresno, CA - 93721
(559) 237-4706

http://mmcenter.org/